The Gamma Globulins

Secondary AgammaglobulinemiaSignificant depressions of serum gamma globulins are usually found in the serums of patients with protein-losing enteropathy, exfoliative dermatitides and the nephrotic syndrome or occasionally with severe malnutrition. Decreased serum gamma globulins due to hypercatabolic states have been reported.368 Defective synthesis of gamma globulin frequently accompanies neoplasm of the lymphoid system, particularly reticulum-cell sarcoma, lymphosarcoma, Hodgkin's disease and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Such patients have undue susceptibility to infection, but the reasons for this may be more complex owing to their basic pathologic processes. Patients with hypergammaglobulinemia due to M-component disease, such as multiple myeloma and Waldenström's disease, may . . .